Accessible Play
Carolyn Voisey
Mum to one incredible little dude, I work full time in higher education and have my own small business as a jewellery designer/creator. I love noth...
Like anyone else, the Dude enjoys a trip to the park. Unlike almost every other child however, he doesn’t often get to play on the swings, slides or other play equipment. Because the thing that grants him access to the world is also the thing that prevents him from using much of the equipment or facilities that you or I take for granted.
His wheelchair.
Or, more specifically, the fact that he is unable to support his body without it. So, he is unable to stand or lift himself out of it. Seeing him looking on sadly as other children enjoy themselves is enough to break even the hardest of hearts.
So, when he was gifted a wheelchair swing some time ago we made it our mission to ensure that this piece of kit was fitted in our garden. And as soon as possible. After all, its just a swing right? How hard can it be. At this point, dear Reader, I have developed something of a nervous twitch.
Some 12 months after this amazing swing was gifted, it is finally installed.
We are fortunate to have an amazing, and large, garden. It is however on something of a slope – this means that what should have been a simple task has turned into something of a project.
To date, the process has involved a substantial amount of earthmoving, the creation of two levels, one becoming a wheelchair access path and the second a patio area to house the swing. The slope has however made one thing very simple – we have a ready made ramp between the two levels. Que hysterical giggling.
Like everything else ‘special needs’, things have not been quite as straightforward as they should be. I will admit that I have questioned my sanity more than once; but to us this is as important as any adaptation to our home.
After 9 years, our boy will finally be able to fully access to his own garden, thanks to the kindness of others he will be able to enjoy playing on a swing, and to just be a typical kid.
It may not be as essential as having a wet room fitted, or hoists installed but why should our children’s life be less fun than anyone else’s, simply because they have mobility difficulties? With everything my son deals with daily, this is the least we can do for him.
